Lunch, Microwaves : April 2016

MICROWAVES LUNCH BUSINESS APRIL 2016

Please attributes any quotes to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

Leading brands are developing models with new features and functionality in response to customers looking for product innovation. One key is not just the equipment itself, but in menu’s and food products too – the marrying of equipment and food/menu developments to get the maximum quality, value for money and labour saving solutions. We have been working with leading food producers and packaging companies to develop dishes specifically for microwave regeneration.
Microwaves today are split into 2 main categories – standard microwave only, which are perfect for reheating a wide range of foods – and combination microwaves, which offer huge versatility for cooking a wider range of products, with the speed of microwave cooking.
There will always be a place in every kitchen for a basic microwave, but future developments are likely to focus on automation, particularly for multi-sited operations. Menu consistency is key and machines which offer easy menu programming will become more and more appealing.
In addition, energy efficiency is a top requirement for many users and is fast becoming a definite key feature. Machines that can produce optimum results whilst keeping energy usage low will meet the needs of many new or refurbished kitchens.

The market leading Sharp range of microwaves available through RH Hall offer heavy and extra heavy duty build quality with total control, flexibility and versatility –with in-built features to save time and energy. The best-selling range goes from 1000W to 1900W to cater for all foodservice applications and are available in both touchpad or manual control versions. The Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 is able to operate in a variety and combination of cook modes making it the most flexible, efficient and easy to use oven yet! It can bake, roast, grill, steam, defrost, regenerate, microwave, boil or simply keep food warm - this is the oven that can do it all. This high speed oven features Menu Creator 2.0™ software. Packed with features, the oven will produce the best results at the simple touch of a button – a total combination of 11 cooking modes can be used to achieve top quality results. Up to 99 menus can be pre-programmed to ensure consistency time after time. But don’t be daunted, the Menu Creator 2.0™ is extremely easy to use; however, if required, full technical support is available from RH Hall. There is a web video available on line which demonstrates the benefits of combination Microwave ovens - visit www.rhhall.com and follow the link on the home page.

The revolutionary iWave® Foodservice Solution uses microwave technology to provide a fully automated, ‘straight to plate’ system. With barcode scanners replacing traditional touchpad or manual controls, the iWave® offers a ‘fool-proof’ solution for certain applications – vending, care homes, hospitals and schools to name just a few. We can work with various food companies to fully test and develop a bespoke menu for any site. With e-reporting options available, stock and budget control can be also managed easily.

For more information:  www.rhhall.com www.maestrowave.com

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY 

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

OOH, Oven Feature : April 2016

OOH MAGAZINE – APRIL 2016 OVENS FEATURE

What types of ovens are available? 

There are a lot of options on the equipment market for ovens - the choice is wide and varied and comes down to personal preference as well as space and budget restrictions. Whatever the preference though, it has to be a versatile and flexible workhorse able to make light work of the most demanding and varied dishes and be able to respond to the on-going changing demands that come with any professional commercial kitchen. Most operations want to offer a varied and attractive food offering and so without a doubt an oven that can ‘multi task’ in response to that will be a good investment. Microwave ovens are definitely an essential part of every commercial kitchen – essential for speed of service yet still allowing a chef to prepare and offer a wide choice of menu. Microwaves are also very energy efficient. If simple reheat and defrosting of foods is required then a microwave will suffice, but if a chef wants to reheat and cook food products then a combination microwave convection oven is well advised. The latest and most flexible combination microwave oven from Maestrowave is the Combi Chef 7. It is able to operate in a combination of modes and can bake, roast, grill, steam, defrost, regenerate, microwave, boil or simply keep food warm all in one flexible, efficient unit. Packed full of new features and the latest version of Menu Creator (Menu Creator 2.0™) the oven will produce the best results ever in super quick time, allowing for 99 menu’s to be pre-programmed using any method of oven, microwave, grill or combination. There is a video showing all the features and benefits of this ‘Intelligent Chef’ online – www.rhhall.com For more traditional oven cooking, the Smeg ALFA Range of bake-off ovens provides an equally flexible solution. Ideal for breakfast service, savouries, breads and morning goods including the most delicate of products, like croissants, can be cooked to perfection. Plus use of these ovens can expand way beyond that – in fact, there is relatively little that can’t be cooked!

What should operators consider before buying new equipment?

Operators should consider their equipment needs in line with current and future menu requirements, numbers and times/peaks in service – for example, it maybe that two smaller, versatile ovens that can adapt to changing service needs are better than investing in one large unit or that for example, one larger bake-off oven could cover a breakfast offering by itself and then bake-off products, such as baguettes, ready to be filled for the lunch service. Space and installation aspects are also key considerations. Consider the footprint of some ovens in comparison to their potential output and whether products can be stacked, one on top of the other. Chefs can easily switch between one or two ovens depending on demand, which will give them great flexibility and potentially added profits when operating to full capacity, off-setting initial outlays. Alternatively a secondary smaller back-up oven such as the Smeg ALFA43UK could be installed to help cater for peaks – or a microwave added for speed. There are a huge range of options to suit and fulfil all needs, whilst remaining cost effective. An oven to look out for: The Smeg ALFA144XE1 has a proven track record of success and is already being used by some of the UK’s leading operators. Recently selected as the winner of the Ranges & Ovens category at the 2015 Product Excellence Awards, this is one of the most technically advanced ovens on the market today, offering an innovative and versatile cooking solution. Also, launching in April 2016 and seen at Hotelympia, the Smeg ALFA140UK is perfect for baking and reheating and designed to accept 4x 1/1 GN containers (or 600x400mm trays). This model also features a 50-250°C temperature range and 60 minute timer, plus a double glazed door and stainless steel interior.

Are there any environmental considerations?

Energy efficiency is extremely important. As the leading independent catering equipment distributor in the UK we work on behalf of a number of the leading brands in the industry and the majority if not all of these companies now manufacture products that have sustainable and environmentally friendly technology in their designs. Equipment is evolving all the time and there are plenty of very good pieces of kit on the market which can help an operation build their green credentials and become more energy efficient. Many ovens will need hard wiring to a certain kW rating, but unique to Smeg is a switchable power supply that can be run from different kW ratings depending on the power on site – anything from 3kW plug-in to 8.3kW 3 phase hardwired - making them ideal for any site with no limitations. The Smeg range also features Double Glazed doors across the range – helping to reduce heat loss.

What features are most useful?

The most important features of an oven will always vary depending on the menu being offered, but as a bare minimum caterers should be looking for an oven that includes at least one fan, with a wide adjustable temperature range and an audible timer. Some operators may prefer manual cooking controls, but in some cases - where the same items are regularly being prepared – preset controls can be a time-saving advantage and also help with uniformity of results. Also look for ovens that are easy to clean and maintain, with stainless steel interiors.

What one tip would you offer on getting the best from your oven?

To help make the right choice, operators must be clear on the intended use of their oven. Look at the volume of throughput, the types of dishes/menu available, variations in service time, staffing skills and find out about the latest features and operational functions before they invest.

R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for the Smeg Foodservice range of Catering & Bake Off Ovens.

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY 

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

2016 British BBQ Battle

click here for more information!

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY 

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

R H Hall 2016 Easter Fundraising

Easter Fundraising at R H Hall 2016

Here at R H Hall we are always up for a bit of fundraising for charity.
This Easter our chosen charity was Sport Relief 2016 we decided to organise a ‘Sports Themed’ Easter Bonnets competition. 

The prizes were awarded to Sophie Hill & Megan Hall for the best Easter bonnets.

Catering Insight, Microwaves Focus : March 2016

MICROWAVES FOCUSCATERING INSIGHT – MARCH 2016

What parts and warranty offers do you have on your microwaves?

For the Sharp range of Commercial Microwave Ovens, this varies from 1 Year for a Medium Duty R21AT, up to 3 Years as standard on the Extra Heavy Duty models in the range – R22AT, R23AM, R24AT and R1900M. When purchased in conjunction with a Microsave Cavity Protection System, this 3 years becomes a ‘Lifetime’ 5 Year Warranty for the Cavity itself. All Warranties include Parts & On Site Labour as standard. Warranty Extensions and Maintenance Agreements are also available on request, via our Service Department. In addition to this, the Sharp range is backed up by readily available Spare Parts, which can be provided for Next Day Delivery via our Spares Team.

Why do you guarantee this length of time?

Having been Microwave Experts for almost 40 years and Exclusive Distributor for the Sharp range for 20+ years, we have a huge amount of knowledge, experience and confidence in this Commercial range. Sturdy manufacture results in an established reputation for quality, durability and reliability.The value of the microwave also needs to be considered. Medium Duty machines are less costly to replace and often a new machine is more economical than costly repairs. For Heavy Duty machines, a larger investment up front should pay dividends for years to come.

Do you provide maintenance training for distributors’ engineers? 

Our vast experience with the microwave industry and a highly knowledgeable team means that we can offer maintenance training for Approved Service Providers. Working with engineers means that we are able to create better technical knowledge of the Sharp range throughout the industry and offer better support to all users, reducing costly down-time by efficient and reliable after sales service.

Do you see the microwave sector changing its approach to aftercare in the future – why/why not?

Change is certainly necessary and education is the key to ensure the maximum lifetime can be achieved from any Commercial Microwave. Regular maintenance means that we see microwaves that have been in service for 10+ years, just because they have been maintained correctly throughout their usage. Overall, maintenance saves money in repair costs and potential down-time, plus the extension to the life of the machine means it earns its initial value many times over. That being said for multi sited establishments we usually experience a 5 year life cycle is determined by the procurement and operational teams.

The most straight forward element of aftercare for any machine is regular cleaning, which is essential to ensure your microwave is working at its best - keep the oven’s cavity and inner door clean of food spillage/deposits at all times. This will avoid cavity burn ups and prolong the life of its heart “The Magnetron”. This measure will also help the consistency and speed of reheat/cook times. The Microsave Cavity Protection System is a unique and simple cavity liner which is safe to use, easy to clean and provides long term financial benefits. This invaluable add on is designed to work with the Sharp Commercial Microwave range and as mentioned previously, every Sharp sold with the Microsave CPS comes with a lifetime warranty on the cavity.

More and more users especially the multi sited chains are looking at the life cost of foodservice equipment in general and it has to be said that Commercial Microwave ovens from a reputable and proven brand like Sharp and Maestrowave provide exceptional value for money when spread over just a 5 year term let alone 10!

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY 

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Hotelympia 2016: Smeg Showcase New Foodservice Range

Hotelympia 2016

February 29th saw London's Excel exhibition center open its doors for 4 days of foodservice focus, as the 2016 Hotelympia trade show got underway.

As a visitor, I was pleased to see a wide range of visitors, creating a busy and vibrant atmosphere. With a reported total of 26,000 attendees over the 4 days - this was clearly a theme that conditioned throughout the week!

Nearly 1,000 exhibitors in total put their best products forwards - with lots of familiar faces representing a large amount of Catering Equipment brands available.

As a exhibitor, we worked with Key Brand partners Smeg Foodservice, with a host of new, exiting and innovative products coming throughout 2016.
For more details, please visit www.rhhall.com or contact the R H Hall Sales Team - 01296 663400 or sales@rhhall.com

Leading the way for a newly developed range, the ALFA140UK will be available in the UK from April, with Hotelympia being the first chance to get a sneak preview.

Perfect for baking and reheating, the ALFA140UK is designed to accept 4x 1/1 GN containers ( or 600x400 trays). This model also features a 50-250°C Temperature range and 60 minute timer, plus a double glazed door and stainless steel interior.

Looking further ahead, Smeg will be enhancing their existing best selling oven range with additional Multi function and Combination options, all featuring a new innovative control system.

Prototype models were shown on the stand to provide a taster of what's to come - and created quite a buzz! In addition Smeg also be showcased their wide range of Ware washing equipment, as well as an enhanced Refrigeration range to include Upright Cabinets and Blast Chillers.  

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY 

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

2016 Hotelympia with Smeg UK

Hotelympia 2016- Stand 3160

#TeamRHHall had a fab day visiting Hotelympia at Excel London on the 1st of March working alongside Smeg on stand 3160 and learning more information about there exiting new products for 2016.

Whilst we were there we has the opportunity to look around at all the other stands and to see the exciting new products available.

Overall #TeamRHHall had a good day.